Steampacket responds to 3FM livestock transport welfare questions

SPC give written response regarding animal welfare following increasing in live animal exports.

As reported today, an online petition has been launched calling for the ban on live animal export for slaughter from the Isle Of Man.

We put the following questions to the Isle Of Man Steampacket Company:

1/ Are the animals inspected during the journey?

The car deck is patrolled during the journey. The crew does not open the containment, but should the shipper's representative wish to visit the car deck during a crossing, the facility to do so is made available on request.

2/ Would the Steam Packet Company refuse to carry the livestock if sailing conditions were too rough?

Yes. The SPC adopts a cautious welfare approach(and is sometimes criticised by livestock shippers for being overly cautious). In addition, we refuse to carry livestock trailers if they do not comply with legislation requirements regarding animal welfare and the provision of adequate ventilation. An all occasions re shipping livestock, the acceptance is made immediately prior to the journey by the duty Captain, and will not be made in advance.

3/ What is the Steam Packet Company's official policy on carrying livestock?

If customers choose to carry livestock (rather than processed meat) then the carriage must comply with all IOM/UK/EU welfare legislation requirements.